The England squad have arrived at Loughborough University in readiness for the start of Rugby League World Cup 2013.

England will start their campaign with an opening fixture against fierce rivals Australia, on Saturday 26th October, at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff.  They will also face group matches in November against Ireland and Fiji.

During the tournament they will be based at Burleigh Court, a four star hotel on the University’s campus, and will also be utilising the sports facilities and pitches.

James Roby, St. Helens and England rugby league player, said:

“We’ve been here for a few years now, so it’s good to get here and know that it’s familiar.  When we come to Loughborough this is our base and it’s become home for Team England.

Loughborough has got a fantastic reputation for sport.  As a national squad for us to use it as our base, it’s a great partnership for both parties.

“The facilities here are fantastic and world class.  I can safely say the gym that we use is the best one I’ve ever been in. We’ve got the pitch right outside the hotel and the food is always great here.

“Everything we need, as a player, to prepare as best we can for a big tournament is here.”

The squad have become frequent visitors to the University since their first preparation camp back in October 2010.

Emma Boynton, Head of Sales and Marketing at imago, said:

“We’re delighted to welcome the England Rugby Football League team back to Burleigh Court. It’s great to be able to support the entire team with first class facilities as they prepare for the start of Rugby League World Cup 2013.

“Not only are we able to provide them with outstanding accommodation and sporting facilities, but as our partnership with the squad has developed we have gained a deeper understanding of their requirements and can help them in other areas such as diet and relaxation so they can get the most out of their time with us.

“It is just another example of how we help sporting teams who choose to base themselves at imago and we wish them all the best in their upcoming games.”

Rugby League World Cup 2013 brings together the top 14 rugby league teams in the world to compete over five weeks in venues across England, Wales, Ireland and France. The final will be played at Old Trafford, Manchester on 30th November.

Further information, including ticket details, can be found on Rugby League World Cup 2013 website at http://www.rlwc2013.com/world_cup

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